During Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, Act for Kids is shining a light on the helpers – our incredible team of Specialist Domestic and Family Violence Practitioners.
With unwavering compassion, these devoted individuals walk alongside families through some of their darkest and most overwhelming moments, offering strength, guidance, and hope on the journey toward healing.
This is Sophie’s story.
Name: Sophie Edwards
Role: Program Manager – Intensive Family Support
Time spent working with Act for Kids: Two years
Q: What is your career background?
A: I have worked in the community services sector for over 10 years, beginning in disability services before transitioning into child protection. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the diverse and complex needs of vulnerable individuals and families. I am grateful to also hold a Graduate Certificate in Domestic and Family Violence Practice.
Q: What do you enjoy most about working in this space?
A: I find it incredibly rewarding to make a positive difference in the lives of children and families, and to contribute to building safer, healthier, and more nurturing family relationships within our community.
Q: What are the biggest challenges working with families who have experienced or are at-risk of domestic and family violence?
A: One of the key challenges in this space is the gap between increasing public awareness and a deeper understanding of just how widespread and complex DFV can be. Many people affected by DFV continue to face stigma when seeking support, often fearing that disclosing their experiences may lead to a loss of control over their situation. In practice, however, effective DFV responses are survivor-led, meaning that individuals are empowered to make informed choices about their next steps, with support that respects their autonomy and safety.
Q: Are there any stories or lessons that resonate with you when you reflect on your own experiences helping families and children?
One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learnt is the importance of slowing down and truly listening. In this work, there’s often a strong desire to immediately help or solve problems. However, I’ve come to recognise the profound impact of simply holding space for someone, taking the time to listen to their story, understand their values, and responding in a way that respects them as an individual. Heartbreakingly, I lost a personal friend and her baby to domestic and family violence. This deep sense of loss also drives me to continue to seek positive change.
Q: This Domestic Family Violence Prevention Month – May 2025 – is there a message you would like to share with the community about DFV?
A: I encourage our community to lean into the difficult conversations. Whether that’s checking-in with a loved one, offering support to someone who may be struggling, or simply being present and non-judgmental. These moments of connection can make a real difference. Most importantly, let’s choose kindness in all that we do.
In loving memory of Tayla Black and her bub Murphy Margaret